1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1972 AMC Matador
To start off, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 AMC Matador. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 AMC Matador would be higher. At 4,982 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Matador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 AMC Matador (150 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (139 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Matador weights approximately 182 kg more than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 AMC Matador is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1972 AMC Matador. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1972 AMC Matador (332 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. 1972 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider has manual transmission. 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 AMC Matador will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1972 AMC Matador | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | AMC |
| Model | Spider | Matador |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 4982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 332 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 155 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1567 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 3000 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 74 L |
